LNWR Class 230s delayed until 2019

The introduction of three Vivarail Class 230 trains with London Northwestern Railway has been delayed.

The trains were due to enter traffic from the December timetable change, running on the Bedford-Bletchley line. However, problems identified during testing on some of the controls that optimise operational systems on 230003 means that sets 230004 and 230005 have been delayed owing to the time spent on the first set.

Vivarail remains confident that it will deliver the trains in the New Year from its Long Marston base, although spokesman Alice Gilman told RAIL on October 30 that she could not give an exact date. The company said it is taking full responsibility for the delays.

LNWR will continue using Class 150s and ‘153s’ on the route until the ‘230s’ are ready.

Jonny Wiseman, head of stations for LNWR, said: “The Class 230 programme is an innovative scheme that will deliver many benefits to local rail users. We will continue to support Vivarail in bringing this new concept to the Marston Vale line.”

Vivarail CEO Adrian Shooter said: “My experience in the rail industry means I am fully aware of the problems that can occur when introducing new trains, and that one unforeseen event can easily overturn months - or even years - of planning. That is the case here.

“However, I am confident that my team will deliver the finished trains with a minimal delay and allow London Northwestern Railway to bring them into service soon. There is a great deal of anticipation to see the ‘230s’ in service. I am confident that the wait will be worth it.”